Soundtrace’s Compliance Review Elevates Hearing Conservation Standards
Former Senior OSHA Leader Evaluates Program Against 29 CFR 1910.95
CINCINNATI – Soundtrace, a technology-enabled services company modernizing hearing conservation and occupational noise programs, has successfully completed an independent third-party compliance review of its hearing conservation program against OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 Occupational Noise Exposure.
The review was conducted by Scott Ketcham, CSP, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, through Nexus HSE. Findings indicated that Soundtrace's hearing conservation program not only meets applicable OSHA hearing conservation requirements but also exceeds several regulatory expectations when implemented as per Soundtrace's guidelines.
This announcement follows a significant peer-reviewed study published by Purdue University in The Hearing Journal, highlighting how Soundtrace's audiometers and software greatly improve the effectiveness of hearing conservation programs.
Both the independent compliance review and the research reinforce Soundtrace's profile as a credible and compliant provider for commercial employers and governmental organizations.
Embracing Modern Solutions in Hearing Conservation
The OSHA hearing conservation standard has remained largely unchanged since the 1980s, despite advancements in science, technology, and service design. Although OSHA has released interpretation letters and guidance over the decades, the underlying regulation still relies on outdated models that don't fully integrate modern digital workflows and proactive strategies.
As employers and government agencies reassess their hearing conservation programs, focusing on effectiveness, there is a pressing need for independent assessments led by experts. These assessments measure compliance against both the regulatory text and the broader intent of the law.
Soundtrace's recent review stands out as one of the pioneering independent evaluations of a modern, technology-driven hearing conservation service against OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95, taking into account both regulations and enforcement intentions shaped by years of contribution from senior OSHA leaders.
"This assessment confirms alignment with OSHA standards as intended," stated Matt Reinhold, Chief Operating Officer at Soundtrace. He emphasized that it sends a strong message to employers and government entities about Soundtrace’s commitment to evolving hearing conservation practices beyond a regulation established more than forty years ago.
Highlights from the Independent Review
The independent assessment scrutinized Soundtrace's documented protocols, system controls, and operational workflows to ensure they align with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95. The review was performed through the expertise of Nexus HSE, a professional environmental health and safety organization.
Mr. Ketcham's extensive experience, with over thirty years at OSHA, includes roles in various senior leadership capacities, allowing him to bring invaluable insights to the review. He also possesses nearly two decades of experience in enforcement and compliance leadership across multiple regions.
The assessment focused on major components of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 through a programmatic control lens. The following key elements were evaluated:
- Noise exposure monitoring and dosimetry
- Audiometric testing program design and operational workflows
- Baseline, annual, and longitudinal audiogram management
- Identification and follow-up processes for standard threshold shifts
- Controls for audiometric testing environments and ambient noise management
- Audiometer calibration and quality assurance processes
- Selection, fit testing, and support for hearing protection
- Documentation and delivery of employee training
- Recordkeeping of medical and exposure data
A comprehensive compliance matrix linked relevant regulatory subsections to Soundtrace’s operational controls and associated evidence, confirming adherence to federal standards.
It is crucial to note that this assessment does not replace an employer's responsibility to maintain an OSHA-compliant hearing conservation program; rather, it validates that Soundtrace's framework is structured to facilitate compliant implementation when utilized correctly.
Supporting Evidence from Academic Research
Building on the compliance review, the Purdue University study revealed substantial improvements in hearing conservation program effectiveness due to Soundtrace’s capabilities, including enhanced access to testing and improved consistency across assessments.
These efforts, in conjunction with the independent compliance assessment, provide robust endorsement of Soundtrace's regulatory adherence and the real-world impact of its programs.
Focusing on Proactive Hearing Loss Prevention
Recent studies have highlighted that untreated hearing loss can increase cognitive decline risk and associated long-term healthcare expenditures. These findings have intensified the demand for hearing conservation initiatives that transcend simple regulatory compliance in favor of prevention and timely intervention.
By integrating independent validation, peer-reviewed research, and modern, data-centric workflows, Soundtrace aids employers and government sectors in establishing hearing conservation initiatives aimed at minimizing health risks and financial burdens rather than merely checking compliance boxes.
About Soundtrace
Soundtrace provides innovative hearing conservation services, combining technologies like boothless audiometry and noise exposure monitoring within a secure, cloud-based platform. The company supports organizations in creating scalable and compliant hearing conservation programs that elevate the effectiveness of workplace auditory protection.
Additionally, Soundtrace collaborates with UniFirst First Aid + Safety to facilitate mobile hearing testing services, allowing for accessible audiometric evaluations on-site without compromising compliance oversight or secure record-keeping.
This assessment does not imply OSHA endorsement or approval.
Media Contact
Soundtrace, Inc.
Email: Soundtrace media contact
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the compliance review evaluate?
The compliance review assessed Soundtrace’s hearing conservation program for alignment with OSHA standards and regulatory intent.
Who conducted the independent compliance review?
The review was conducted by Scott Ketcham, a former senior OSHA leader with extensive experience in occupational safety.
What findings were reported from the review?
The assessment found that Soundtrace’s program not only meets but in some areas exceeds OSHA's requirements.
How does Soundtrace advance hearing conservation?
Soundtrace combines technology with modern service designs to create effective and compliant hearing conservation programs.
What are the implications of untreated hearing loss?
Research indicates that untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline and increased healthcare costs over time.
